|
|
 |
Planning continues for a new Branch Library in Mattapan. Find out more...
DISTINCTIVE
ASPECTS OF THE COLLECTION
There are small, but high quality, Multicultural and French language collections.
RECURRING
PROGRAMMING OFFERED
Weekly preschool story hours, and homework assistance. Monthly adult book group.
CURRENT PROGRAM SCHEDULE:
Adult Book Discussion Group - 3rd Tuesday of each Month
SPECIAL
PROGRAMMING OFFERED
Lecture programs are typically offered in the fall or spring focusing on topics of local
interest including local history. There are some author and jazz programs for adults.
Summer reading programs are offered for children.
HISTORY
As early as December 18,1849 the people of Mattapan were concerned about library
facilities. It was on that date that Increase S. Smith founded the Mattapan Library
Association. On May 2, 1854, the Boston Public Library opened, and in 1870 the suburb of
Dorchester, which included Mattapan, was annexed to Boston. The Mattapan Branch evolved
over many years beginning with a reading room attached to the delivery station in the
Oakland Hall Building in Mattapan. In 1898, the book collection consisted of ninety-eight
volumes.
Around 1924, the population of Mattapan began a rapid increase. As newer groups
began to establish themselves in the more central Boston neighborhoods, Jewish immigrants
moved in large numbers to Mattapan.
The small reading room was granted Branch status in 1923, but could not meet the demand
of the growing population. Annual circulation climbed from 20,000 volumes in 1924 to
75,010 in 1926. Mattapan residents requested a new library. Citizens' letters and
petitions took effect, and on June 22, 1931 the present Mattapan Branch Library opened its
doors."
|
Mattapan as it looked in August of 1931. |
|